Why We're Teaching What We're Teaching

Every church reaches moments when it needs to pause; not to slow down, but to make sure it’s moving in the right direction.

Over the past several weeks, we’ve been intentional in our teaching at Cornerstone. From December through January, the focus has been clear: Christ equips His people for service. But when a congregation covers a lot of ground, it’s easy to lose sight of the bigger picture. That’s why this Sunday’s message is about reorientation—not change for change’s sake, but clarity of purpose.

The New Testament never presents preaching and teaching as religious routine. Teaching exists for a reason. According to Ephesians 4:11–16, Jesus Himself gave teaching to the church, not to create spectators, but to equip saints for the work of ministry and to help His people grow into maturity.

That distinction is important.

Church is not meant to be something we merely attend. Scripture describes the church as a living body—designed by Christ, nourished by truth, and strengthened when every part participates. Teaching is one of the primary ways Jesus prepares His people to live faithfully, serve joyfully, and stand firm in a confusing world.

This Sunday’s sermon will step back and ask an important question:
Why does Christ give teaching to the church at all?

We’ll look at how:

• Teaching flows from Christ’s authority, not human preference
• Equipping is about preparation, not busyness
• Maturity—not comfort—is the goal of discipleship
• Growth happens when every believer engages, not just a few

This message is about understanding what Jesus is doing among His people and how each of us fits into His design.

Whether you’ve been part of the church for decades or you’re still finding your footing, this sermon will help you see your faith—and your place in the body of Christ—with fresh clarity. It’s an invitation to move from listening to living, from attendance to participation, and from routine to purpose.

If you’ve ever wondered why we emphasize certain themes, why growth sometimes feels stretching, or how your life truly matters in the work of the church, this message is for you.
Join us this Sunday at Cornerstone as we return to Scripture, refocus our hearts, and remember this simple truth:

Christ equips His church on purpose—and He equips every member.
We’d love for you to be with us.

What role does Christ play in shaping and equipping the church?
How does remembering this change the way we view preaching, teaching, and leadership?
2.  What does “equipping” look like in everyday Christian life—not just in formal church roles?
3.  In what ways can comfort keep us from spiritual growth? How have you seen growth come through challenge?
4.  What are some ways every Christian—regardless of age or role—can contribute to the health of the body?
5.  As we move forward as a church, what is one area where you personally sense Christ calling you to grow, serve, or engage more fully?

Those Serving
CALL TO WORSHIP/PRAYER
Justin Spargo
SONG LEADER
Eric Renegar
LEAD LORD'S SUPPER
Rich Walker
 ASSIST LORD’S SUPPER
Drew Triplett
Josh Childers
Jeff Livingston
Mike Rosato
SCRIPTURE READING
Billy Robbins
Ephesians 4:11-16
PREACHING
Matthew Allen
CLOSING PRAYER
Roy Pyle
CLOSING COMMENTS
Russ Robins
WELCOME CENTER
Emily McDonald
USHERS
Jim Rutter // David Williams
COMMUNION PREP
Gwen Price
CLOSING THE BUILDING
Mike Rosato